The singer, who is father to Nicole Richie, says he understands what Cyrus is going through, what with all the twerking and tongue-wagging and skimpy clothing.

"When you have a teenage daughter growing up in Hollywood, in the business, I mean, what I went through with Nicole, God bless Billy Ray," Richie adds. "Honestly, there is no control."

Nicole, 31, struggled for years with drug addiction, but is now a successful clothing designer, wife and mother -- proof that it does get better, Richie says.

"(Miley) is just going through a period in her life and we're actually going to grit our teeth and hold our breath. I did the same thing. It's one of those things where you have to say, 'Please God let it be over soon.' That's where she is in her space and this is her expression and that's what it's all about."

We all got Miley'd in 2013. The sassy pop star kicked off the year showing off some side cleavage at Clive Davis' Grammys gala at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on Feb. 9. And she went on to become the subject of endless chatter, thanks to her VMAs appearance, her 'SNL' gig and her ever-more-edgy outfits. USA TODAY's Ann Oldenburg offers a reminder of her crazy year and many looks. (Photo: Jeff Kravitz, FilmMagic)

Miley was a little more conservative when she stopped by 'Live With Kelly and Michael' to chat with guest co-host Kristin Chenoweth and Michael Strahan on June 26 in New York. (Photo: David Steele, AP)

Fans got another eyeful: Miley wore pasties in Vegas, but opted for stars in New York at her 'Bangerz' record release signing at Planet Hollywood Times Square on Oct. 8. (Photo: Mike Lawrie, Getty Images)

Miley's dress for MTV's EMA show on Nov. 10 in Amsterdam included a message: The back said 'Please stop,' and the front said 'Violence.' Pictured are Tupac and Notorious B.I.G. (Photo: Kevin Mazur, WireImage)

Miley smoked a joint onstage during the MTV EMAs at the Ziggo Dome on Nov. 10 in Amsterdam. Marijuana is not legal in the Netherlands, but smokers can't be prosecuted for possession of small amounts. (Photo: Gareth Cattermole, Getty Images)